Major Reforestation Initiative in Teide National Park: 17,000 Canary Cedars Planted

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Cabildo of Tenerife, in collaboration with the Endesa Foundation, has launched an ambitious project to replant 17,000 endangered Canary cedars within the stunning Teide National Park. This effort marks a significant step towards the conservation of one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.

Joint Efforts for Ecological Preservation

This extensive reforestation project is part of two complementary conservation initiatives that were unveiled this year, both aimed at protecting the distinctive flora of Teide National Park and revitalizing its high mountain ecosystems. The unveiling of the initial results occurred at the Teide El Portillo visitor centre, where notable figures gathered, including Blanca Pérez, the councillor for Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies of the Tenerife Cabildo, along with representatives from the Endesa Foundation and the University of Valladolid.

During the presentation, Pérez highlighted the significance of Teide as a living heritage that must be preserved for future generations. She remarked that the planting of 17,000 cedars represents a crucial advancement in enhancing habitat connectivity and ensuring the regeneration of this vital ecosystem. The project not only aims to restore the natural environment but also to foster a deeper appreciation for the ecological wealth of the region.

Unveiling the History of Ancient Cedars

In partnership with the University of Valladolid, researchers have undertaken a comprehensive study of a population of 25 Canary cedars located within the park. Among these trees is the oldest living tree in the European Union, estimated to be an astonishing 1,544 years old. This remarkable discovery underscores the rich biodiversity of the region and emphasizes the importance of these ancient trees as natural monuments that tell the story of the island’s ecological history.

Pérez expressed her gratitude to the Endesa Foundation for their invaluable partnership in this project, stating that the identification of such an exceptional population of ancient cedars highlights the unique ecological heritage of the area. The ongoing conservation efforts also aim to reintroduce emblematic species such as the violet and the silver thistle, further enriching the park’s biodiversity.

Scientific Insights and Aspirations for the Future

The first project, developed in collaboration with the Endesa Foundation and the University of Valladolid, has successfully inventoried and characterized the ancient cedars found in remote locations within the park. Initial findings reveal that eight of the 25 studied specimens are over a millennium old, with three exceeding 1,500 years. These results provide invaluable insights into the ecological past of Teide National Park and underscore the resilience and biodiversity represented by the Canary cedar.

Juan Ignacio Ferrer, the head of Biodiversity at the Endesa Foundation, emphasized the organization’s commitment to conserving natural heritage through biodiversity projects in collaboration with National Parks. He pointed out that the restoration of cedar forests presents a unique opportunity to restore ecological balance in the region, which has faced numerous environmental challenges.

Professor José Miguel Olano from the University of Valladolid remarked that this discovery exemplifies how applied science and public-private partnerships can yield meaningful outcomes in the protection of natural heritage. He stressed the urgent need to protect the rich biodiversity of the Canary Islands with unwavering determination, as these ecosystems face increasing threats from climate change and human activity.

As the event drew to a close, attendees were given the opportunity to visit the nursery, where they could observe the projects in action. This hands-on experience illustrated the collaborative efforts being made to preserve and enhance the natural environment of Teide National Park, showcasing the dedication of all parties involved in this vital conservation work.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife and Endesa Foundation have replanted 17,000 endangered Canary cedars in Teide National Park.
• The initiative aims to conserve endemic flora and restore high mountain ecosystems.
• The oldest living tree in the European Union, a Canary cedar, is located in the park and is 1,544 years old.
• Collaboration with the University of Valladolid has led to the study of 25 ancient cedars in the park.
• Initial findings reveal that eight cedars are over a thousand years old, with three exceeding 1,500 years.
• The project also aims to reintroduce species like the violet and silver thistle into the park.
• Public-private partnerships are crucial for effective conservation efforts in the region.